Samyang / Rokinon 100mm F2.8 Macro Sony E
Review
The Samyang (also known as Rokinon) 100mm F2.8 Macro lens is an impressive addition to the macro photography toolkit, specifically designed for the Sony E mount. With a longer focal length of 100mm, this lens offers excellent versatility for capturing intricate details in small subjects as well as providing a bit of distance between the photographer and their subject, making it suitable for both macro and portrait photography.
Build Quality and Design
One of the standout features of the Samyang 100mm F2.8 Macro is its solid build quality. The lens is constructed with a good balance of metal and high-quality plastics, giving it a robust feel while still being relatively lightweight. The lens features a weather-sealed design, which is a fantastic added benefit for outdoor photography in varying conditions. Additionally, the focus ring is smooth and precise, allowing for meticulous focusing required when working with macro subjects.
Optical Performance
In terms of optical performance, this lens excels in delivering sharp, detailed images with excellent contrast. The F2.8 maximum aperture allows for good background separation, which is particularly desirable in portrait work. At macro distances, the lens demonstrates impressive resolution and minimal distortion, making it ideal for nature photographers capturing the fine details of flowers, insects, and other small subjects. The bokeh produced by the lens is creamy and pleasing, enhancing the overall aesthetic of images.
Autofocus and Manual Focus
The lens features a reliable autofocus system that performs admirably in most situations. It's generally quick and accurate, but performance may slightly lag in low light or with contrast-detection in certain scenarios. Fortunately, manual focus is a strong point for this lens. The long focus throw allows for precise adjustments, making it easier to achieve the desired focus on tiny details in macro photography.
Compatibility and Use Cases
The Samyang 100mm F2.8 Macro is compatible with Sony E-mount cameras, allowing full use of the lens on both crop and full-frame sensors. It works exceedingly well for macro photography, but its 100mm focal length also makes it a good choice for portrait photography, offering a flattering perspective for subjects.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent build quality with weather sealing
- Sharp optics with minimal distortion
- Beautiful bokeh and contrasty images
- Reliable autofocus in most situations
- Long focus throw for precise manual focusing
Cons
- Autofocus can struggle in low light
- Slightly heavier than some competitors
Verdict
Overall, the Samyang / Rokinon 100mm F2.8 Macro lens stands out as an exceptional lens for anyone looking to delve into macro photography while also providing versatility for portraits. Its build quality, sharpness, and optical performance make it a commendable option for Sony E mount users. Though it has its minor drawbacks, the positives far outweigh them, making it a highly recommended choice for both hobbyist and professional photographers alike.